Illinois targets 21 percent of drivers not buckling up         

Special patrols aim to improve driver safety

[June 02, 2007]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois State Police District 9 announced figures Friday for the first wave of traffic patrols in a special enforcement program. The special patrols in Sangamon County on Thursday were conducted at Interstate 55, and additional patrols will be conducted through Sunday.

Enforcement figures totaled 49 arrests and 16 written warnings, including 44 arrests for speeding. In addition, two individuals were cited for not having insurance, one person was issued a ticket for no valid driver's license and one person was issued a citation for violating Scott's Law.

Safety belts are the most effective safety devices in vehicles today, estimated to save over 14,000 lives each year. Yet, 21 percent of motor vehicle occupants still don't buckle up nationwide.

The Special Traffic Enforcement Program involves a combination of increased enforcement and community education designed to raise public awareness and compliance with all traffic laws. A special emphasis is being placed on speeding, failure to wear a safety belt, DUI and other alcohol-related offenses in areas that experience the highest level of traffic problems.

As a part of the "Click It or Ticket" campaign, the program is funded through a grant from the United States Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The grant is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

[Text from Illinois State Police District 9 news release]